I love the idea of the tagline being Strange is Relative. I also love when you can see many meanings in one phrase. As another turn of phrase, I liked the idea that the subject being painted in the portrait was a doll, and the 'fictional' (i.e. the painted version of that person) was 'realistic'. I wanted to give the impression that the real world version of Barnabus was a more playful version than the 'painted' human version, or a slightly pretentious vision of him.

I had the idea to create the 'real world' being of Barnabus as a doll, because so many of my favorite Johnny expressions remind me of just that - expressive, silent emotions. Tim Burton and Johnny Depp are both creative visionaries, in their own right, and their concepts are so strong artistically (be it character or story) that they could film a silent movie, and we'd still know exactly how they wanted to make us feel because the visuals are so strong. I also love the dark but not depressing aura that surrounds both the creative style of Burton and the classic show of Dark Shadows as well (if you've never watched it, RUN to Netflix- its a diamond in the rough!) My goal was to have the vibe of my own creations reflect that.

I created the doll in it's entirety, from the pattern of the body, the outfit (pants, shirt, vest and coat), to the sculpt of his hands; I also painted on the details with an acrylic paint to create further depth as well. I made a frame for his portrait, so that it would reflect the 70s era, but with a warped sort of flair. I wanted the portrait of Barnabus to reflect the doll, so I drew and painted him in the same attire that I designed and tailored for the doll His vest is an olive green brocade fabric, and his brown coat is a soft leatherette material. He has matching heeled boots (which I felt were appropriate for the time period) and 3 chains connecting the vest in the center. He is also holding a large red amulet, as seen in several promotional images, which I'm sure we'll learn more about at the highly anticipated release of the film itself I also felt the need to add it in as in the show, the jewelry of Barnabus sets us off in the very beginning, so it was a small homage to the show as well.

This doll is fantastic!! Very well done and the whole concept for him and his "painting" is really thought out and well portrayed here! And I have to agree with alot of the comments on here - those boot are AWESOME!!!

As a competitor I'm jealous lol But the Idea and the story + Doll = Amazing I wish u the best of luck

It's more then a portrait its a story The only thing that turns me away a little is that the doll is facing down :/ We miss the work u put into it's face But, on the other hand it moves my eye to the groove portrait. Great Idea and Good luck

I know the bar is really high,And there are so many different portraits and styles.I'll hate to be a judge on this one Can't wait to see who wins, I bet it's going to be unexpected, especially with Tim Burton getting the final pick.

I have to say, I am very impressed with the hands. Taking the time to craft this and creating the outfit to look so natural on him, simply amazing. I want those boots so badly, but truly, very well done.

I cannot quit looking at this piece!The combination of the doll and the portrait are incredible! You have captured both the feeling of the original series (Yes I'm that old that I remember running home after school to tune it in) and the style and flair that I know only Tim Burton can bring to this new project!!!!